The 2008 Toyota RAV4 along with the 2008 Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV that offers three trim levels, the Base, Sport, and Limited. It packs a 4-cylinder, 2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve SFI VVT-i 4-cylinder 166hp engine or a 3.5-liter V6 that tops at 269hp. Fit with a corresponding 4- or 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with overdrive, the RAV4 offers plenty of power and control. When the going gets dicey, on demand fourwheel drive will get you out of a jam.

Versatility is the name of the game when it comes to the RAV4, with accessories like a cargo tote, tray, or net to secure your load. Technology to bring along is a must, with your XM Satellite radio or wireless headphones. Don't forget to protect your articles of conspicuous consumption with the peace of mind of owning a multi-faceted security system. My favorite is the convenient bike attachment apparatus, which makes attaching any bike easy.

You can't always have everything, and the RAV4 doesn't disappoint except maybe in the looks department. Rather plain and lacking character is what comes to mind. The front to the vehicle is sculpted and aerodynamic in an ugly sort of way. The rear end is quite simply, forgettable. This does not impair the Toyota RAV4 performance however. There is plenty of oomph behind that gas pedal, and it behaves admirably on the road.

Running at from $21,100 to $23,350, RAV4 is good on gas, and has all the safety features you could want. On the road, it is agile, brakes quickly, and gets up to warp-speed in a flash. RAV4 is overpriced and ugly. Other than that, it is a well-built and serviceable vehicle, probably suitable for the small family or sports-minded individual.